Highlights of Sumatra

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Journey through the spectacular landscapes of Northern Sumatra, from the lush rainforests of Gunung Leuser National Park to the volcanic highlands of Berastagi and the tranquil waters of Lake Toba. Search for wild orangutans in one of the world's most important rainforest ecosystems. Climb the steaming crater of Mount Sibayak at sunrise and discover the rich traditions of the Batak people. Along the way, learn about local conservation initiatives, explore vibrant markets and experience the warmth of Sumatran hospitality on this rewarding cultural and wildlife adventure.

Trip highlights

Bukit LawangTrek through the rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park with expert local guides, in search of wild Sumatran orangutans and other native wildlife.

Mount SibayakSet out on a sunrise climb to the steaming crater of an active volcano, taking in sweeping views across North Sumatra's volcanic landscape.

Lake TobaCruise across the world's largest volcanic lake to explore traditional Batak villages and discover the unique culture and history of Samosir Island.

Combine the Highlights of Sumatra with our Discover Bali, Flores and Komodo Islands tour on selected dates

Itinerary

Itinerary option: 2027

1Day 1Join trip in Medan

Arrive in Medan, the capital of North Sumatra and Indonesia's third largest city. A vibrant trading hub, the city has been shaped by centuries of migration and commerce, creating a fascinating mix of Malay, Batak, Chinese, Indian and Dutch influences. This rich cultural heritage is reflected in Medan's architecture and, perhaps most famously, its diverse food scene, where street food stalls sit alongside traditional coffee shops and local restaurants. For those arriving on time, our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for a welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to meet your fellow travellers over dinner at the hotel's restaurant. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Medan Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), a one-hour hour drive from our hotel. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your tour leader will inform you of any essential information over breakfast on day two. If you'd like to beat the jetlag by adding an extra night or two to the beginning of your tour, contact us to book accommodation.

Hotel Santika Premiere Dyandra (or similar) · Sumetera, IndonesiaComfortable · HotelSingle-room option available

2Day 2Explore Medan before driving to Bukit Lawang. Guided night wildlife spotting in Gunung Leuser National Park

First thing in the morning we discover two of Medan's most significant landmarks. We begin at Maimun Palace, the former royal residence of the Sultanate of Deli, whose striking architecture blends Malay, Islamic and European influences. We then visit the magnificent Great Mosque (Masjid Raya Al Mashun), one of Indonesia's finest mosques. Subject to prayer times, we hope to step inside to admire its ornate interior and learn about its importance to the local community. After our visit, we leave the city behind and drive for approximately three hours to Bukit Lawang, our gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park. Along the way, we'll pass villages, rice paddies and extensive oil palm plantations. Palm oil remains an important part of Indonesia's economy despite its well-known environmental challenges, and our tour leader will provide balanced local insight into this complex issue. On arrival, we'll check-in into our accommodation which is located on the edge of the national park. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with en suite facilities and fans. As this is a remote rainforest location, air conditioning is not available and hot water can occasionally be limited. After an early dinner, we'll meet our local guide and head into Gunung Leuser National Park for a guided night walk. Following a different trail from tomorrow's trek, we explore beneath the rainforest canopy at a relaxed pace, discovering how the forest transforms after dark. As daylight fades, our focus shifts to the park's nocturnal wildlife, and with luck we may encounter insects, frogs, geckos, civets, sleeping birds and, occasionally, the elusive slow loris, while listening to the sounds of the rainforest at night. This walk offers a fascinating introduction to the diversity of life within Gunung Leuser National Park ahead of tomorrow's longer rainforest trek. The walk covers up to 2 kilometres/1.2 miles on mainly flat forest trails and takes around three to four hours, allowing plenty of time for wildlife observation. Our overall driving time today is around three hours.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Ecolodge Bukit Lawang (or similar) · Sumetera, IndonesiaComfortable · HotelSingle-room option available

Orangutan in Gunung Leuser National Park

3Day 3Guided rainforest walk in search of wild orangutans and recycling village visit

This morning we venture once more into the rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park, accompanied by our tour leader and an experienced local wildlife guide. We follow narrow jungle trails beneath the dense forest canopy in search of one of Sumatra's most iconic residents - the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan. Bukit Lawang was once home to an orangutan rehabilitation centre, but today the animals here live freely within the national park. Although sightings can never be guaranteed, this remains one of the best places in the world to observe wild orangutans behaving naturally in their forest habitat. The rainforest supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife and, with luck, we may also encounter endemic birds and a variety of reptiles, while the forest itself teems with butterflies, insects and tropical birdlife. Gunung Leuser National Park also provides a vital refuge for elusive Sumatran tigers, elephants and rhinoceroses, although these are very rarely seen. Today's walk covers approximately 5 kilometres/3 miles and takes up to four hours, including time spent observing wildlife. The trails are uneven and can be muddy or slippery, with exposed tree roots, with some short but very steep sections and around 225 metres/738 feet of ascent and descent. While the distance is relatively modest, the tropical heat and humidity make the walk considerably more demanding than it may appear, so a good level of fitness and confidence walking on uneven terrain are essential. Later this afternoon we visit Project Wings, an inspiring community-led recycling project working to tackle plastic pollution while supporting rainforest conservation and local livelihoods. During our visit we'll learn how discarded PET bottles are transformed into eco-bricks by filling them with cleaned plastic waste, creating durable building blocks used throughout the village. We'll enjoy a guided tour of the project, watch an eco-brick making demonstration and visit the e-gallery to learn more about the organisation's environmental work and the positive impact it is having on local communities. We round off the visit with dinner at the project before returning to our accommodation.

Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Ecolodge Bukit Lawang (or similar) · Sumetera, IndonesiaComfortable · HotelSingle-room option available

4Day 4Drive through the Sumatran Highlands to Berastagi

Leaving the rainforest behind, today's full day scenic drive takes us into the cool highlands of North Sumatra. As we climb through the mountains, dense tropical forest gradually gives way to fertile farmland, pine trees and small villages surrounded by fruit and vegetable plantations. We'll make several stops along the route, including opportunities to sample seasonal tropical fruits from roadside stalls before arriving in Berastagi, a bustling market town sitting at around 1,300 metres/4,265 feet above sea level. The cooler climate provides a welcome contrast to the humidity of the rainforest. Late this afternoon we visit Berastagi's colourful fruit and vegetable market, where local farmers sell everything from sweet passionfruit and avocados to fragrant spices and seasonal produce grown on the surrounding volcanic soils. We recommend getting an early night tonight as we'll be heading out early to catch the sunrise. Our overall driving time today will be around seven hours.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Sinabung Hill Berastagi (or similar) · Sumetera, IndonesiaComfortable · HotelSingle-room option available

5Day 5Sunrise climb of Mount Sibayak before continuing to Lake Toba

A very early start rewards us with cooler temperatures as we set out to climb Mount Sibayak (2,100 metres/6,890 feet) with an experienced local mountain guide. Although only relatively short in length, today's walk is one of the most physically demanding of the trip. After leaving our vehicles, we climb approximately 400 metres/1,315 feet on rocky volcanic paths, uneven steps and loose gravel before reaching the steaming crater. Sulphur vents hiss and, on a clear morning, the summit offers superb views across the surrounding volcanic landscape. The ascent usually takes around two hours at a steady pace. The route can be slippery after rain, and the combination of steep gradients, uneven ground and volcanic terrain requires good balance and fitness. Using walking poles may be beneficial for additional support. After descending, we return to the hotel for breakfast and a chance to freshen up before continuing our journey towards the vast caldera of Lake Toba. Along the way we stop at Dokan, a traditional Karo Batak village where distinctive wooden houses provide an insight into local life and customs, before visiting the spectacular Sipiso-Piso Waterfall, which plunges over 100 metres into the ancient volcanic crater below. Continuing to Parapat, we board the ferry across Lake Toba to Samosir Island, our base for the next two nights. Our total drive today is around four hours, followed by a half-hour public ferry.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Toledo Inn (or similar)Simple · HotelSingle-room option available

6Day 6Discover the Batak culture of Samosir Island

Today we explore Samosir Island, situated in the heart of Lake Toba, the world's largest volcanic lake. This water-filled giant caldera was formed following one of the largest volcanic eruptions in Earth's history around 74,000 years ago. The lake dominates the surrounding landscape and remains the cultural heartland of the Batak people. Travelling by boat and road, we visit several traditional Batak villages including Tomok, Ambarita and Simanindo. Along the way we learn about Batak history, architecture and customs, visiting ancient stone chairs once used for village meetings and justice, elaborately carved ancestral tombs and beautifully preserved traditional houses with their distinctive soaring roofs. At Simanindo we gain further insight into Batak culture hopefully through displays of traditional music and dance, depending on local schedules. Returning to our lakeside hotel during the afternoon, the remainder of the day is free to relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings or perhaps take a refreshing swim in the lake.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Toledo Inn (or similar)Simple · HotelSingle-room option available

7Day 7Return to Medan and explore the historic Kesawan district

After breakfast we leave Samosir Island by the same public ferry before beginning the four-to-five-hour drive back to Medan, passing fertile farmland, plantations and mountain scenery along the way. On arrival in the city we explore the historic Kesawan district on foot. Once the commercial heart of colonial Medan, the area is home to beautifully preserved heritage buildings, Chinese shophouses and bustling local businesses that reflect the city's multicultural past. The remainder of the afternoon is free for last-minute shopping, relaxing at the hotel or sampling some of Medan's renowned local cuisine before our final evening together.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Hotel Santika Premiere Dyandra (or similar) · Sumetera, IndonesiaComfortable · HotelSingle-room option available

8Day 8Trip ends in Medan

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Medan. There are no activities planned today, so you\ re free to depart from Sumatra at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you\ d like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Medan Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), which is just under a one-hour drive from the hotel.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trip map

Walking information

Walking

This is a wildlife and cultural discovery holiday, but there are three included walks that require a good level of ability and fitness. Although the distances are relatively short; high temperatures, humidity, uneven and steep terrain and occasional muddy or slippery conditions make them considerably more demanding than the distances alone suggest.

The rainforest walk in Gunung Leuser National Park lasts around four hours and follows narrow jungle trails with exposed tree roots, muddy sections and approximately 225 metres / 740 feet of ascent and descent. Wildlife sightings often involve periods of standing and waiting on uneven ground.

The climb of Mount Sibayak is the most demanding walk of the trip. Although only a few kilometres, it involves around 400 metres / 1315 feet of ascent and descent on very steep volcanic trails with loose gravel, rocky sections and uneven steps. A good level of fitness, sturdy walking footwear and confidence on uneven terrain are essential.

What's included

Meals

7 breakfasts
1 dinners

Staff

Local Guide(s), Driver(s), Explore Tour Leader

Transport

Bus
Boat

Accommodation

5 nights Comfortable Hotel
2 nights Simple Hotel

Where you'll stay

Throughout this trip, we stay in comfortable hotels and locally-owned lodges, chosen for their character and location.

In Medan, we stay in a comfortable, modern hotel. Facilities include a restaurant and swimming pool, making it a relaxing base to start and end our trip.

In Bukit Lawang, our accommodation is located on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park, giving us easy access to the rainforest. Rooms are simple, with en-suite facilities and fans. As this is a remote jungle location, air conditioning is not available and hot water can occasionally be limited. The peaceful riverside setting and surrounding rainforest more than make up for the simpler facilities.

In Berastagi, we stay in a comfortable hotel in the cooler highlands, well positioned for our early morning ascent of Mount Sibayak.

On Samosir Island in Lake Toba, we stay in a simple lakeside hotel. Facilities here are more basic than elsewhere on the trip, but rooms are en-suite and the peaceful setting offers a wonderful opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery after several active days.

Accommodation standards in parts of Sumatra may vary. While all properties have private bathroom facilities, occasional interruptions to electricity, Wi-Fi or hot water can occur in more remote areas.

Is this the trip for you?

We've graded the walks on this tour as Moderate. While the distances are relatively short, the tropical heat and humidity, uneven rainforest trails and steep volcanic terrain make them more demanding than they may appear. A good level of fitness and confidence walking on uneven ground are essential.
Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. Bukit Lawang is one of the best places to search for wild Sumatran orangutans, but as the animals roam freely within Gunung Leuser National Park, all sightings depend on nature.
We recommend bringing walking poles for the ascent and descent of Mount Sibayak, along with sturdy walking shoes or boots with good grip and support. Lightweight, breathable clothing and a waterproof jacket are also recommended for walking in the rainforest.
Accommodation in Bukit Lawang and on Samosir Island is simple, reflecting their remote locations. Facilities are more limited than in Medan, but the rainforest and lakeside settings are a real highlight of the trip.
There are a few early starts, including our pre-dawn ascent of Mount Sibayak to enjoy sunrise from the crater, as well as some longer road journeys. We'll make regular comfort stops along the way.

Weather

Indonesia

Lying on the equator, Indonesia stays hot all year round, with daytime temperatures in the 80's (26°-28°C). Humidity is usually high. The wet seasons are roughly: Java- October to April; Bali- November to May; starting later the further east you travel. Nights are much cooler in the mountains than on the plains. Sea breezes normally keep the coastal strips of the islands from becoming too uncomfortable.

Single-room arrangements

A single-room option is available for every night of this itinerary. Subject to availability for your departure. A single-room supplement applies.

Budgeting & packing

Budgeting

Tipping guidance

Local crew

Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided.
Accordingly you should allow approx. £25 for gratuities for local staff.

Tour leader

Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we'd recommend between £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.

Currency & payment

Indonesia

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

GBP will often get the best rates, EUR and USD are also accepted

Where to change: Always check rates first. Banks and moneychangers usually have the best rates. Exchange is also possible at airports. Always keep receipts.

ATMs: In major towns.

Card notes: In major towns.

Credit cards accepted: No

Packing

Clothing

The region is tropical (humid) and days can be very hot. Casual clothes are the most practical, whilst tight fitting garments should be avoided. Please bring long skirts, trousers and shirts to cover yourself fully in order to respect local sensibilities, and to cover your arms and legs in the jungle. Bring some warmer clothing for the time spent at higher altitudes. Light rain gear and/or an umbrella is excellent in sticky, tropical conditions. A sunhat is essential.

Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes or boots for jungle and volcano walks. Trainers and sandals for leisurely activities.

WALKING INFO
This is a wildlife and cultural discovery holiday, but there are three included walks that require a good level of ability and fitness. Although the distances are relatively short; high temperatures, humidity, uneven and steep terrain and occasional muddy or slippery conditions make them considerably more demanding than the distances alone suggest.
The rainforest walk in Gunung Leuser National Park lasts around four hours and follows narrow jungle trails with exposed tree roots, muddy sections and approximately 225 metres / 740 feet of ascent and descent. Wildlife sightings often involve periods of standing and waiting on uneven ground.
The climb of Mount Sibayak is the most demanding walk of the trip. Although only a few kilometres, it involves around 400 metres / 1315 feet of ascent and descent on very steep volcanic trails with loose gravel, rocky sections and uneven steps. A good level of fitness, sturdy walking footwear and confidence on uneven terrain are essential.

Equipment

Binoculars, torch, water bottle, insect repellent (tropical strength), high factor suncream (at least factor 15), good quality sunglasses and a lip salve with sun protection. Although not mandatory, you may wish to bring walking poles for Mt Sibayak.

Luggage

One main piece of baggage and a daysac. Remember, you are expected to carry your own luggage and
cabin space is limited, so don't overload yourself.

Luggage limit: 20KG

Travel preparation

Water information

Indonesia

The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip.

Visa and entry information

Indonesia: British nationals travelling to Indonesia for tourism purposes can apply for a visa on arrival at a cost of IDR 500,000. The

visa application can also be done online - https://evisa. imigrasi. go. id/. A custom declaration is required too on arrival. This can either be done online up to 3 days in advance of your arrival or on arrival - https://ecd. beacukai. go. id/.

Other nationalities may require a visa or may travel visa free for up to 30 days. Please check your government advice. If travelling on a free visa you must also exit via one of the approved ports - including international airports in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bali, Medan, Surabaya and Batam, and sea ports in Batam and Bintan.

All passports must have at least 6 months validity remaining after departure from Indonesia and have at least two blank pages.

Travellers heading to Indonesia must now complete the All Indonesia Arrival Card, which replaces the separate immigration, customs, and health declaration forms. This online form can be filled in up to 72 hours before arrival at allindonesia. imigrasi. go. id. Once submitted, a QR code will be issued, which must be shown-either on your phone or printed out-along with your passport when you arrive. To complete the form, select 'English' at the top right of the website, then choose 'Foreign Visitor.' You'll need to provide personal and travel details, including your passport number, travel dates, flight or ship details, accommodation address, and any health or customs declarations.

Please note that this form does not replace a visa-you must still obtain the correct visa for your visit. Even if you're eligible for visa-free entry, you're still required to complete the Arrival Card before travelling.

In response to the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration of Monkeypox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on August 14, 2024, the Indonesian Ministry of Health has implemented new measures to prevent the spread of Monkeypox within the country. Effective immediately, all travellers entering Indonesia via Jakarta and Bali are required to complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass (SSHP) before their arrival. The SSHP form can be filled out by clicking this link - https:/shp. kemkes. go. id/. Once the required information is submitted, you will receive a barcode, which must be presented to airport staff during the immigration process upon arrival in Indonesia.

Health and vaccination guidance

Indonesia

Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, typhoid and polio. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on Malaria and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Although not compulsory, travellers may wish to immunise themselves against Japanese encephalitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Government travel advice

Indonesia

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page. The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.

Children's travel documents

Indonesia

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.